LUCY: 40 YEARS OF TELEVISION

1980

As she begins what would be the last decade of her life, Lucille Ball makes a momentous decision – to leave CBS for NBC.

“Sinatra: The First 40 Years” ~ January 30, 1980

Lucille Ball is one of many guests of Frank Sinatra celebrating his 64th birthday and 40th year in show business. Taped at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas.

“The Merv Griffin Show” ~ February 4, 1980

Merv’s guests are Lucille Ball, James Brolin, Michele Lee, and Natalie Wood. Lucy talks about teaching comedy seminars in college. Merv begs her to do her famous “Waaaa” cry. Lucy reluctantly complies.

“The Mike Douglas Show” ~ February 7, 1980

Mike Douglas also welcomes Mariette Hartley (co-host), Jim Bailey, David Letterman, Victoria Principal, Patrick Boyriven, Morris Katz, and Freda Payne. Lucille Ball promotes “Lucy Moves To NBC,” which aired the following day.

“The Today Show” ~ February 8, 1980

Lucille Ball promotes “Lucy Moves To NBC,” which aired that evening. 

“Lucy Moves to NBC” ~ February 8, 1980

Lucille Ball moves to the peacock network after nearly 30 years with CBS. An all-star special celebrates the move, with Lucy playing herself. As producer, her first show it the fictional “The Music Mart” starring Donald O’Connor and Gloria DeHaven.

“Password Plus” ~ August 18-22, 1980

All week, Lucille Ball and Dick Martin take on ‘civilian’ players. Hosted by Allen Ludden. This was Lucille Ball’s favorite game. 

“The Steve Allen Comedy Hour” ~ October 18, 1980

Steve Allen welcomes Lucille Ball, Steve Martin, George Kennedy, Louis Nye, Bill Saluga, Catherine O’Hara and Donna Summer. Ball and Nye perform in a sketch about a fragile hospital patient who must not be disturbed.